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06 Sep, 2024 by Harmony schuerman
25 Jul, 2024 by Ricky flores
I've been through 3 lawyers this past year with my case and Mr. Davis was my 4th. I wish I had him from the start. I had violated my probation and Nick not only helped me but got my probation dismissed. I will definitely use Nick here on. Thank you Nick you are a bad M. F.!!
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12 Jun, 2024 by Misty taft
09 Jan, 2025 by Glen miears
Excellent.
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04 Jan, 2025 by Atl breed
Word was bond. Thank you.
~WilliamsFamily
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07 Dec, 2024 by Michael paul agirre
Abe Factor represted me in 2019, I had two blue warrants, three new dope cases in Riverside and he still got me a low ,single digit prison sentence..I recommend Abe Factor, he has a good trial record and is specialized in Criminal Defense.
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26 Jan, 2023 by Miguel
I hired Mr.Mackey to file a writ of habeas corpus. He never filed any motions on my case.After several attempts for a refund he never returned my calls or emails.l had to contact the State Bar of Texas. CAAP has sent him 3 letters and called his office.He did not respond. My next recourse was to file a grievance with the State Bar. This man in my opinion isn't honest!
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12 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired George Mackey to appeal my son's case. I had to find out the results of the appeal online. He never returns phone calls. The one time he did return a phone call, he told me to tell my son not to worry, that he will speak with the prosecutor and schedule a new court date. He never returned a phone call after that. Even when I begged him to call me back to tell me if he is has decided not to be my son's lawyer anymore, he still never returned my phone calls. I will be filing an official complaint.
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06 Jul, 2014 by Jack
I have repeatedly used the legal services of George Mackey for the past twenty years. I do without reservations, recommend the legal services of George Mackey.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Gage murdick
17 Sep, 2024 by Mari ramirez
24 Jul, 2024 by Ashley story
23 Jan, 2025 by Gage murdick
17 Sep, 2024 by Mari ramirez
24 Jul, 2024 by Ashley story
15 Jul, 2024 by Olivia cortez
14 May, 2024 by Casston holloway
Very very friendly environment great service fast also consistent
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15 Apr, 2024 by Emily cates
I’m very thankful for Lovelace Law. They took my case on during a difficult stage in litigation and when I had to move on from a previous attorney who was way overpriced and gave bunk legal advice (watch out for KR). I had a contentious and emotionally sensitive probate case, and they handled everything with the attention, legal expertise, and professionalism I thought I had been paying for from the beginning. They got me to the finish line and my only regret is not having hired them from the beginning. A special acknowledgement to Abby Butts who was especially strong during settlement negotiations.
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22 Apr, 2024 by Zachery
I hired Jason Back in December 2023 and he seemed great till months went on with no information in where we where in the case. He will not speak to you he has his non legal assistant just push you off and promise to get you information. I fired Mr. NAG Mar 8th and here we are today APR 22 and he still has not sent the remainder of my retainer back with any statements.
Also I figured he was avoiding my phone calls so today I called and got hung up on then called back and it was sent to voice mail. So I borrowed a buddies phone and the assistant Picked up in 2 rings. He was quite shocked but they still wont give me an answer.
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07 Mar, 2021 by Rebecca
I hired Jayson to handle my divorce which although quite simple has turned out to be quite complicated. The long/short or it is that my husband abandoned our marriage after 4 months. He filed for divorce 2 weeks after that. In the state of Texas, you get spousal support for one month for each “year” that you are married, typically. Jayson was able to, due to his professionalism and diligence, get me spousal support after only 4 months of marriage. This is just one example of what he was able to accomplish for me. I am very satisfied with Jayson’s knowledge, compassion and professionalism throughout this extremely difficult process. During the hearings, he far out shined the opposing counsel. He was organized, concise, not to mention dressed for the part( the opposing was quite unprofessional on all counts). Jayson had all needed documentations and exhibits ready to present to the court. He truly went to battle for me. Although the marriage was short, technically perhaps I was due nothing even though I was abandoned, Jayson orchestrated a well executed victory on my behalf. His patience with me during this time and his eloquence...I will never be able to thank him enough. I love it that although he is very busy and sought after because of his reputation of getting the job done, Jayson made himself available to communicate with me. I didn’t have to always communicate with his staff or assistant. He truly cares about his clients and for that I will be forever grateful. If you are reading attorney’s reviews the way I did in a desperate search for the right person to represent you...take it from me, look no further, Jayson Nag is your answer.
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17 May, 2019 by Nickolas
I've had my share of legal problems but Jason Nag and his firm was by far the most helpful and dependable yet. Mr. Nag never missed a court date, his office was very helpful and professional, and he got my case dismissed like he said he would.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Arron taylor
03 Jul, 2024 by Dawson larry
26 Jun, 2024 by Carlos r.
29 Nov, 2023 by Laura
In my opinion, Most would be more successful in their case defending themselves than this clown. He was the 1st of my 3 court appointed attorneys against a false DV felony charge. My case began about 3 years ago. After 3 years, and After 3 court appointed attorneys, I felt forced to defend myself. Six days later, MY CASE WAS DISMISSED! And, I am no legal expert! My advice, do not be bullied or feared into any plea bargain. Only take one if absolutely necessary!! Prayers for all who is stuck with this court appointed one and the system! Thanks for allowing me to give a honest review.
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04 Aug, 2021 by James
Daniel Hernandez is the best criminal attorney in DFW. He really has your best interests when representing his clients.. He did an awsome job for me and I truly thank him.
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01 Nov, 2019 by Alexandro gonzalez
Daniel Hernandez was an absolute Beast when it came to getting my case dismissed after going to trial. He is very ethical, passionate, intelligent, and tremendously skilled in law. This man truly takes the time to study/learn your case to the best of his ability, so that there are no hiccups along the process. Thanks to Daniel I can keep my current job/career and continue living a normal life alongside my family.
I highly recommend hiring Daniel Hernandez if you want your case being handled by one of the best in this line of business.
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02 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I hope folks read this before anyone makes the grave mistake of hiring this firm before shopping around, like my in-laws did. I’m not an attorney in Texas, but I am an attorney in another state, and I can say that what has been described to me about this firm is egregious.
First, they seem to have a paralegal who doesn’t understand that she’s not a lawyer (despite the fact that she’s apparently never been to law school and is not a member of the Bar) and she may be engaging in the unauthorized practice of law.
Next, this firm doesn’t appear to do the bare minimum right out of the gate in civil dependency cases or family law cases, such as ensuring visitation with children.
Last, but most certainly not least, it appears they take cases they’re not even remotely competent to handle, such as felony criminal defense cases. If true, this would be a violation of the ethical obligation lawyers have to provide competent representation. This firm, by all appearances, cares only about collecting your money and not about actually advocating for their clients.
If you need an excellent criminal defense lawyer, talk to Cofer & Luster.
Even if these Tumo Law people do have some experience, it doesn’t look like they’re any good. If you need a family law attorney, you may want to shop around if you care to have high-quality representation.
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18 Feb, 2024 by Robert
This guy is lazy and incompetent. Didn’t a do a thing for me in my divorce that I couldn’t do myself. He didn’t fight for me, all he did was acquiesce to my ex’s lawyer as if he just didn’t care. I wouldn’t recommend this POS to anyone. Spend your money on a good lawyer, not this joke.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Bmw
I wish I had a rave review to leave. I hired Tyler at a very challenging time in my life. After talking, hiring and telling him what I was wanting to accomplish in my custody battle and what I already had custody wise going in was nothing compared to what I got coming out. I got less than I initially had to begin with all because I trusted someone that was more knowledgeably than I on the issue. Please know exactly what your signing for in depth before you sign because I didn't and now I'm stuck for a year with my current orders and cant do a thing to get it modified now that I know exactly what they mean. Oh and good luck with him returning messages or calls.
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12 Jul, 2024 by Arron taylor
03 Jul, 2024 by Dawson larry
26 Jun, 2024 by Carlos r.
12 Jul, 2024 by Arron taylor
03 Jul, 2024 by Dawson larry
26 Jun, 2024 by Carlos r.
12 Jul, 2024 by Arron taylor
03 Jul, 2024 by Dawson larry
26 Jun, 2024 by Carlos r.
11 Mar, 2024 by Joyful frazier
Michael Berryman is an awesome paralegal to work with. I was so miserable and broken 💔 when I first met him. His reassurance gave me the hope I'd lost. He helped me with so much! He always responded to my calls. What he said was going to happen in my case really happened. I just hope he gets a raise and a great bonus. He even helped me work through this modern technology. He is a great asset. If anyone out there need help please ask for him. Tommy C is a great attorney too. He don't mess around. I'll always appreciate the support from Mr.Berryman.
Thank you a million and one times!!
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14 Feb, 2024 by Steven krueger
They say they will call you
They lie
Why lie Joanna and Andrea???
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09 Dec, 2023 by Kevin crosson
Michael was far and away the best person I have dealt with in any professional setting. He helped me solve numerous issues to get our case closed out and behind us. Very grateful for everything he did and could not recommend him more.
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13 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
This guy is a hack. I wouldn't hire this guy for a jaywalking ticket after the way he treated my case.
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09 Oct, 2014 by Matt
I would highly recommend Brian because of his knowledge, expertise and service. He's a former prosecutor with tremendous insight into how prosecutors think and knows how to beat them at their own game.
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22 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Brian has the experience and the knowledge of the inner workings of the Texas Legal System for criminal law. There isn't anyone that I would rather have defend me in a court of law. I was facing a felony charge and my way of life depended on him. He came through for me like the champion that he is, and my case was dismissed. What a relief and I owe it all to Brian Salvant and his staff. Thank you very much Brian.
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12 Mar, 2023 by Gohar
I had the pleasure of working with John Paul Chidgey, and I must say that he is one of the best attorneys I have come across. He is affordable, doesn't compromises on the quality of his work. He fights hard for his clients and doesn't shy away from taking on the opposition. Unlike some attorneys I have dealt with in the past, he has a human element and genuinely cares about his clients. He's not a sociopath like some of them! John understands the emotions involved in legal battles and is always willing to listen and provide guidance. I highly recommend John Paul Chidgey to anyone in need of legal services.
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22 Jul, 2022 by Diana
Mr. Chidgey did what two others could not accomplish and that was to give me a clear understanding of my case, expected outcome and plan for getting there. He is professional, proficient and EFFECTIVE. Hire him!
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03 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I do not recommend John-Paul Chidgey to to be as your attorney to be trusted or depend on any of your case's ,!!!! NO NO NO
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30 Jun, 2019 by Fabian and juanita
Me and my husband hired Rosana and man what wonderful lawyer she is. She defiantly knows her job and was there for us when we really didn’t know what was next. My husband being a prior felon was able to get probabtion after 3 felonies thanks to this woman Rosana we couldn’t thank you enough.
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10 Sep, 2018 by Beverly
Rose Salinas came referred to me by a close friend. I had been arrested on an aggravated assault charge with a deadly weapon. CRIMINAL ATTORNEY ROSE ANNA SALINAS IS AWESOME.! She fought for me and she called me today and my case has been totally dropped! It no longer is pending. I am sooo overwhelmed with gratitude for this attorney! It was the best money I have ever spent! God is faithful, and so is Rose Anna Salinas!
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06 Feb, 2018 by Beth
I highly recommend this attorney! She is professional and caring. I was charged with a serious felony and she obtained a complete dismissal of the charges. I could not believe it!! She saved my life.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Truth hurts
25 Sep, 2024 by Stuart “sarge” wallace
Bobbie Edmonds Law firm is unprofessional and is taking money from the public while giving extremely poor representation and most time does not represent you based on the information you give her. She gets in meetings and can’t properly explain the issues at hand because she is very forgetful. She repeats herself constantly during a meetings and gets the information confused. It makes you and your family look unprofessional. She was late to meeting and late with filings that could have helped my daughter case have a better outcome and she doesn’t ask the important questions that needed to be asked because she is trying to speed up the case so it can end. She ignored my calls and questions I had about the case for 2 weeks and I didn’t get a response from her until I did a chargeback to get some of my money back that she is now disputing even after she removed herself from the case. The nerves of her to think she should get full payment when she quit less then halfway through the hearings and I’m still representing and going through the process with my family which is much better. She is not a good attorney she is taking advantage of people that do not understand professional representation. It was a embarrassment to have her represent us and it felt like she was helping the other side in order to have the case end. She wrote and sent information on how we wanted to resolve the case without our acknowledgment and it was nothing we even discussed nor wanted as a resolution. She is not a trustworthy professional. Be advised and her legal Aid is worse and rude. It’s sad to try and find black attorneys to do business with and then turn out to be unprofessional with a hustler mentality.
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07 May, 2024 by Debra blair abron
03 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Easy hiring process and Mr. Frisby is the only attorney at his office, which meant complete one on one with him and personal attention to my case. Thank you so much for all of your help and guidance with my divorce!
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15 Sep, 2015 by Bgh
Mr. Frisby was on time for this child support hearing and prepared ( unheard of for most attorneys)! He was informed about the issues at hand; Presented the facts/viewpoints in an objective manner; Kept cool under pressure; Negotiated well; and attentive to details.
Highly recommended for family law which is often disregarded by most, but Mr. Frisby really cared.
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10 Mar, 2015 by Connie
Got a speeding ticket summer 2014, and I was recommended this quack to handle my case. BIG mistake! I thought that's what I paid the lawyer to take care of showing up to court for me. So I take time off work to show up to court and Frisby shows up an hour late from the court time! I'm sitting there waiting on this idiot like a dumbass. Finally shows up and said he was caught up at a different court...sleezebag. A year later I received a letter from the court saying I failed to show up to my second court apparent therefore I have a warrant out for my arrest and because it's now a warrant status I have to pay him the increased fee of $189. Unbelievable!
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24 May, 2018 by Tinashe
So I called to setup an appointment to see ED and scheduled a time, as to note I had to take a day off and I also had to plan to go all the way to Ft Worth from Frisco. The secretary is very unprofessional, answers the phone like its a personal phone, even when I scheduled she rushed the whole process. long story short I get to the Law office on time and no one is there, after 30 mins of waiting the secretary rushes into the office, without acknowledgment. After an additional 5 mins passes she comes out, and with a dismal excuse, she says that Ed will not be available and that he is at trial, my question is , why not call and inform me, she stated she had no time, but instead she had time to go get lunch smh. Anyways glad I didn't spend a dollar on this lawyer. Note, your front end( Receptionist/secretary) is important, they can make you money or make you lose it.
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04 Nov, 2013 by James
I was referred to Edward by a friend,
He is a top notch attorney, who got
Me the absolute best outcome of my
Case! I highly recommend him
To friends and family! He is very talented
And has the knowledge to take care of
Anyone in dire need of a top notch
Defense attorney, Thanks Ed, James Johnson
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05 Nov, 2012 by Kevin
Ed Jones went above and beyond my expectations. He kept me informed at all times and was able to get me the absolute best outcome on my Probation Revocation and DWLI cases I could have possibly have hoped for. His fees were reasonable and he worked with me on payments. He really is a top notch defense attorney.
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18 Dec, 2019 by Big ant
26 Sep, 2019 by Michelle mcdaniel
05 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
For someone that is looking for representation I wouldn't recommend John Tijerina. My father used him a lot when I was younger and I decided to give him a chance. For my consultation with him I had several ideas and he brushed them off and the way he reacted it made it seem that he wasn't interested in the case. I had several legal questions to ask after doing some online research not one time did he recommend any of that. Anyways, John is probably interested in making a quick buck on unsuspecting folks. So beware, on the Brightside consultation was free and enough to know he's not worth my money.
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28 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Gayden was an incompetent, ineffective attorney in my case. She has the audacity to want to represent Tarrant county when she was incapable of representing me in court. She also has a very negative, Disrespectful personality.
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22 Oct, 2021 by Lindsay
All 3 of my husbands kids have wanted to live with him, for almost 5 years. We were in court with her 2 years before his daughter was going to turn 12. We had so much evidence on paper about their mother it was ridiculous. The youngest son had over 100 and something tardies to school, somewhere around 15 or so absences. The oldest daughter was just as bad. His ex was working nights and would leave the kids home alone. They did a home visit, & the lady who evaluated the home misconstrued everything. I wrote down everything that was wrong from the home visit, to our personal interviews, and we had asked Mrs. Gayden to present this in court. She never did. We knew how much value the home visit held. She acted like she spent not even 5 minutes reviewing it. The whole experience was miserable. Every time his ex wanted something she would just say to agree, because they weren’t going to budge. We had asked her to file paperwork on his oldest son that lives with us to get child support for him. She said she was working on it. A few months ago we are back in court & the district clerk said she left it open and never filed the paperwork. Now he is 18, and almost 5 years have passed and we have gotten absolutely no child support at all for him, and can’t because of his age. I would send over papers weeks in advance on so many things, and she would say they never got it. His ex broke her restraining order on multiple occasions. We had mutiple photos and a video, and she never presented them. Postings on social media making up things, and badgering my husband. A police report that lied and said he hit her, and myself and the daughter, were there to tell the cops that she was lying! BUT NONE OF THESE THINGS WERE PRESENTED IN COURT!!! She never even got our meeting place changed and we asked her to do that for 2 years!!!!! She said that the other side wouldn’t budge that we had to agree. She wasted our kids lives, our lives, and our money! She was recommended through a church friend, sadly that is what is so disappointing. If you need a family law attorney DO NOT HIRE HER! She is very in organized, & waits till the last minute on absolutely everything! I worked for a family law attorney for 6 years and couldn’t believe how she maneuvered. I told my husband to fire her repeatedly but he just wouldn’t do it, & ended up not paying her anymore at the end because he finally had it!
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13 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Attorney Gayden is the absolute best! She handled my case with care from start to finish, although at times I wasn’t the best client to deal with. I get to see my daughter on a regular basis because my daughter’s mom doesn’t want any issues with my attorney. She’s a beast. I’d highly recommend her for custody and child support cases, especially for father’s rights.
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31 Oct, 2024 by Joseph rolf
My experience with Mr St John is he did a great job for me and I'm already out in the world again after accepting a 20 year sentence I did 3yra 9 months on it and I have been to prison 7 times so when hire this man he goes to bat for you and if your guilty he makes sure you get the least amount of time. I am truly blessed to have found this lawyer. If I would have stuck it out with a public defender I'd still be fighting for my life
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15 Oct, 2024 by Skyler plumlee
He got my case dismissed! Words cannot even express how I feel right now!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Parker county axe co.
Any who is looking for a fighter look no further! Warren works hard for his clients. We had 2 of our friends use him and he got a solid outcome!
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31 Oct, 2024 by Joseph rolf
My experience with Mr St John is he did a great job for me and I'm already out in the world again after accepting a 20 year sentence I did 3yra 9 months on it and I have been to prison 7 times so when hire this man he goes to bat for you and if your guilty he makes sure you get the least amount of time. I am truly blessed to have found this lawyer. If I would have stuck it out with a public defender I'd still be fighting for my life
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15 Oct, 2024 by Skyler plumlee
He got my case dismissed! Words cannot even express how I feel right now!
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14 Oct, 2024 by Parker county axe co.
Any who is looking for a fighter look no further! Warren works hard for his clients. We had 2 of our friends use him and he got a solid outcome!
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27 Aug, 2021 by Pat
He is my sons appointed attorney. Always available to speak with . And results of case seem to be turning out with a good outcome.
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22 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Very rude very unprofessional he does not know how to talk to to the victim of the family correctly I would never use you and refer no want to use you under no circumstance
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28 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Didn’t get ahold of me until the literal day before court and told me the wrong time . Almost got arrested because of his mistake and then blamed me up and down. Caused a commotion in court room, and yelled at me because of HIS mistake when the judge understood the mixup he STILL proceeded to cause a scene . Then Said he "supposedly texted me about a court date" which he never did which then lead to a warrant out for my arrest. My advice if you get him as a free attorney would be to not have him as one and request another ASAP if you do. Hes a complete Joke and a whole clown when it comes to the criminal justice system. He acts like he’s actually somebody when in reality he’s just a free attorney hired by the state.
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26 Nov, 2024 by Christopher
Michael absolutely understands the process to reach the best possible out come. He will fight tooth and nail for his clients.
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29 Jan, 2024 by Kasy
I was arrested and booked into a county that is known for piss poor court appointed, or outrageously expensive attorneys. Where if you're broke you're gonna not only sit in jail for months on end but def get the short end of the stick. This man was a court appointed and he took care of business. I watched men go into court and back to jail over and over waiting on a lawyer to get it together. I was in and out of jail that day with much desired sentence. He helped give me a chance at starting over and my life has never been better. Thank you sir.
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12 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Wth is wrong with this guy. Where is he. And why does it take so long to hear from him.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Angela
I hired Elizabeth Rivera as my attorney for a complicated lawsuit, involving more than one party and including a corporation. As most people realize, the wheels of justice run slow. Covid interrupted my cases. However, even after all that, Elizabeth amazed me on many occasions. It was as if she had perfect recall of the details of all aspects of the case and quickly zoomed in on discrepancies by various parties. In court, she was professional, skilled and very prepared. I am happy with the results. In every aspect of the case I could win, I did. In the one aspect of the case that through no fault of Elzabeth I lost, Elizabeth's amazing court skills, used to argue against the outlandish attorney fees that the other side tried to make me pay, won me a favorable ruling.
Do I recommend Elizabeth Rivera to others? Absolutely! Will I use her again, if needed? Absolutely! Do I have anything negative to say about her or any of her staff? NO!
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07 Feb, 2022 by Sylvia
The worst unprofessional getto attorney and staff. Fin a professional ethical attorney because she is terrible
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01 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Attorney Elizabeth is a rip off and she tried to send me a extra bill when she owes me money DO NOT USE!!!
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28 Nov, 2024 by Brian johnson
25 Nov, 2024 by Anoosah store
Very Bad experience they know nothing to advocate for their clients. Don't waste your money here
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05 Aug, 2024 by Bill lane
Big Firm, Big Reputation, Very poor representation, no client advocacy, billing so high they would need to add hours in a day to justify. Intentional delays at every corner. All about double and triple billing. Stay away if you want to win your case and have a good experience.
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19 Jan, 2023 by M alexander
The best out there. She truly cares about her clients.
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11 Mar, 2020 by Shelly wade
11 Mar, 2019 by M marie
awful injust Lawyer Lisa Mullen wants her client to lie in the court of law and is friendS with the DA who tries to play with peoples lives. Do not hire EVER!!
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19 Jan, 2023 by M alexander
The best out there. She truly cares about her clients.
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11 Mar, 2020 by Shelly wade
11 Mar, 2019 by M marie
awful injust Lawyer Lisa Mullen wants her client to lie in the court of law and is friendS with the DA who tries to play with peoples lives. Do not hire EVER!!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.
Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.
When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:
- Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
- Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
- Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
- Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
- Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
- Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.
What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?
Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:
- Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
- Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
- Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
- Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
- Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
- Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.
How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?
Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:
- Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
- Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
- Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.
The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:
- Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
- Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
- Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
- Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.
Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you’ll want to ensure that they’re a good fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask:
-
What is your experience with cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has a strong track record with the specific type of criminal charges you’re facing, whether it’s DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes. -
What is your fee structure?
Ask how the lawyer charges for their services and whether you’ll be responsible for any additional costs. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of your case and the likelihood of dismissal, a plea bargain, or conviction. -
How many cases have you taken to trial?
While many criminal cases settle with a plea deal, it’s important to hire a lawyer with courtroom experience in case your case goes to trial. -
Who will handle my case?
Ask if the lawyer will be personally involved or if other attorneys in the firm will handle most of the work. -
How do you communicate with your clients?
Be clear on how often and through what channels you can expect updates on your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:
- Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
- Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
- Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
- Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:
- Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
- Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
- List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
- Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.
By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.
